Although this has not been specifically brought to my attention, I am conscious of the challenges faced by certain cohorts across the country in accessing Covid-19 related information. It is vital to provide older people with accurate, up to date information regarding the Covid-19 crisis. In this context Covid-19 related information is being widely disseminated. While not specifically a matter for my Department, a number of cross Government information programmes have been run across both local and national traditional media throughout the crisis to ensure the immediate dissemination of important information to those who need it in communities across the country, including older persons. Part of that national response includes the Local Authorities-led COVID-19 Community Call Forum which is working in partnership with ALONE, the national charity for older people. A leaflet with advice for older people, contact details for Alone and each of the Community Call Fora was distributed to homes throughout the country.
Public service and community broadcasting are particularly important as readily available, trusted sources of information on Covid-19. At my request, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) has waived the broadcasting levy for commercial and community radio, for quarters 1 and 2 2020. The BAI has also agreed to my request that they put in place a Covid-19 funding round under the Sound and Vision Scheme of €2.5m. This will be for commercial radio given its important role in Covid-19 awareness raising at a local level. It is expected that details of the outcome of this round will be available in the coming days. This will be complemented by a funding round of €750,000 for the community radio sector over the summer.
HSE information is also being provided on the Saorview information channel which is available to those who may not have an internet connection.
Furthermore, An Post has been delivering Covid-19 related information directly to homes. By providing information on a cross media basis and through An Post, information is in no way limited to those with an internet connection.
